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Johnny Layton

Long Beach, California’s resident Vans pro, Johnny Layton (aka
J-Lay) is jokingly nicknamed ‘Big Boy,’ a moniker that refers as much
to how high he pops his tricks as it does his solid build.

Johnny turned pro for world-famous artist and legendary
skateboarder, Ed Templeton’s Toy Machine Skateboards back in 2006 and
has been on Vans since 2004. In high school, Johnny was scouted
heavily by colleges to play baseball and possibly even go pro, but his
passion for skateboarding and the culture surrounding it far
outweighed any desire to ride the pine away on some conventional team
sport activity. Recently, Johnny cemented his name in the annals of
skateboard history by ollieing the legendary double wall at Freedom
Plaza in Washington D.C., just yards away from the White House. For
decades the greatest skaters with the biggest snaps have tried to
clear this massive wall gap, but none have risen to the challenge;
only J-Lay has ever been able to go the distance. Good job, Big Boy!

Interview

What's the best trip you've ever been on?

I don't think there's one trip I've been on that's better than any
other. Just as long as there are good spots, food, trees and the
homies. Spain is always the top on the list though.

Favorite Vans Rider?

Geoff, by far! He's been one of my favorite skaters since I picked
up a skateboard.

What trick can't you do that you wish you could?

540s!

What are some interests/hobbies outside of skating?

Bowling, photography and Wii.

Last good book you read?

I haven't read a book since high school. I mean, I've tried to, but
I can never finish.